Widely regarded as a leader in the Panamanian aviation industry, Galindo, Arias & López houses a wide-ranging practice spanning aviation finance, regulatory issues and corporate transactions. The firm is the first port of call to advise an array of airlines (including the national flag carrier, Copa Airlines), lessors, financial institutions and aviation service providers, frequently working alongside international law firms to assist with the local law elements of multi-jurisdictional mandates. Cristina Lewis, who brings extensive expertise in the full range of aviation matters, with a particularly impressive reputation for aviation finance, oversees the practice. Of counsel Daniel Sessa provides strong support across the board.
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Key clients
- Copa Holdings
- Compañía Panameña de Aviación (Copa Airlines)
- Aerorepublica (Copa Colombia)
- Air Transat
- Cargolux Airlines International
- Panama Air Cargo Terminal
- La Nueva Aerolinea
- Academia Latinoamericana de Aviación (ALAS)
- Continent Maritime
- Legenda Maritime
- Gol Aerotech
Work highlights
Advised Copa Holdings and its subsidiaries on the finance, lease and registration of five new Boeing 737-9.
Advised Copa Holdings and its subsidiaries on the finance, lease and registration of six new Boeing 737-8 to be delivered to its subsidiary Copa Airlines between 2024-2025.
Advised Copa Airlines on all Panamanian legal matters involved in the payoff of guaranteed loans of four Boeing 737-800 aircraft, initially contracted to finance their acquisition under a JOLCO structure.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Daniel Sessa
Practice head
Cristina Lewis